Fashion and style are a way of life in Korea, and both men and women put a lot of effort into choosing their outfits. Each day people choose pieces that make a statement and show individualism. No matter the occasion, Korean style embodies the art of dressing up and looking great, whether on a quick trip to the grocery store or a night out at an upscale restaurant.
The Korean style is more of a conservative look compared to the western world, although much of the fashion is actually inspired by the western world. If you're trying to update your wardrobe to achieve the Korean styles popular today, these tips can help you avoid making a fashion faux pas when trying to look your best.
Don't Wear Leggings – In western fashion, leggings are a part of an everyday casual outfit, but in Korean styles, leggings are seen as more of an undergarment or active wear. Leggings are still worn but usually underneath shorts, skirts, and even pants for additional warmth in the colder months.
Avoid Low-Cut Tops – While it's becoming more acceptable as western styles become more integrated into Korean fashion, wearing low-cut tops is not quite accepted in society. You don't want to expose shoulders or cleavage. With lower-cut tops or smaller tank tops, it can be easy to overexpose yourself, especially when sitting, bending, or bowing. With the focus on a more conservative style, most Korean fashion brands avoid releasing low-cut tops.
But It's Okay to Show Legs – Oddly enough, skirts, shorts, and dresses are more socially acceptable in Korean fashion. It's okay to show off your legs as long as you cover your legs when you sit. While showing legs is acceptable, the considerations for a conservative and yet more modern look are still prioritized.
Always Put Effort into Your Outfit – No matter where you are going for the day, appearance is everything in Korean culture. If you go out wearing a sloppy outfit or are just in sweats or clothing you could wear to bed, it doesn't look like you're doing well in life and is seen as a negative appearance.
No Bikinis or Swim Shorts – Continuing on with the conservative theme, when thinking of beach attire, it's well-known that Korean fashion does not include bikinis or swim shorts. Most Koreans will wear full beach clothing or completely covered in at least a one-piece swimsuit. As times evolve and more modern fashion is integrated, especially among younger Koreans, it's becoming more accepted, allowing these styles to be worn at the beach.
About Bold Colors for Men – Casual wear for men often avoids bright and bold colors. Men should go for neutral or earthy tones as a more conservative put-together look. Bold colors, however, are not completely off the table. Bold colors can be incorporated as statement pieces and during more special occasions.
Korean fashion is full of diverse styles that integrate from traditions and take inspiration from cultures around the world. There's a balance between keeping it conservative while creating a style that is unique to the scene. While there are things to avoid, the rules in fashion are changing and becoming more culturally accepted. In the years to come, these rules may just be an element of fashion history. Korean fashion will always focus on trendsetting and ensuring each person looks and feels their best.